Version: 2008
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WEEKEND PROJECT: Computerize your car
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Step 1

Getting started

Step 2

What you'll need

Step 3

Assess your car

Step 4

Anchor the PC

Step 5

Install the display and input

Step 6

Boot it up

Step 7

System suggestions

Weekend wisdom

Need more advice? Have tips to give? Go to the car tech forum to share your insights.

Computerize your car

Step 7: System suggestions

Mild:
CPU: Xenarc MP-SC8, $900
    Specs:
    Windows XP Home
    Internal CD-RW / DVD
    2GHz Celeron
    256MB of RAM
    40GB laptop hard drive
    Built-in audio and video
    10/100BaseT Ethernet, 3 USB 2.0, 1 FireWire, mic-in, line-out, 2 PS2, 1 serial
    DC power input

Monitor: Lilliput 7-inch touch-screen VGA, $280

GPS: Microsoft Streets & Trips 2005 with GPS, $100

Input: Fentek mini keyboard with touch pad, $55

Wireless: Netgear WG111 USB Adapter, $40

Total: $1,375
Wild:
CPU: CappuccinoPC SlimPRO SP615 Fanless, $1,350
    Specs:
    Windows XP Pro
    Internal CD-RW/DVD
    2GHz Celeron
    512MB of RAM
    80GB laptop hard drive
    Composite video out
    Onboard VGA video
    Mic-in, Line-out, 2 PS2, 1 serial
    10/100BaseT Ethernet, 3 USB 2.0, 1 FireWire

Monitor: Xenarc 700TSV 7-inch touch screen, $395

GPS: CoPilot 8 navigation software with Bluetooth GPS antenna, $300

Input: Gyration Ultra Cordless Optical Suite, $110

Wireless: Proxim Orinoco 11a/b/g ComboCard Gold, $45

Accessories:
Linksys USB Bluetooth Adapter, $50 Hauppauge USB 2.0 TV Tuner, $100 Sierra Wireless AirCard 710, $60 External magnetic mount 5dbi Wi-Fi antenna, $75

Total: $2,485

Computerize your car

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